Through traumatic injuries or everyday wear and tear, vertebral discs in the neck can cause severe pain when they become damaged or diseased. Bulging discs can put pressure on spinal nerve roots, creating pain that begins in the neck and radiates outward to the head, shoulders, and limbs. In many cases, cervical disc replacement surgery offers a viable way to address the issue while still preserving motion in the neck.
Signs You May Need Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery
When considering whether cervical disc replacement surgery may be necessary, there are several signs to be aware of. If you are experiencing chronic neck pain that radiates to your shoulders and arms, accompanied by stiffness, it may indicate a degenerative cervical disc condition that could benefit from surgery. Additionally, tingling, numbness, or weakness in your arms, hands, or fingers could be a result of compressed nerve roots, signaling the need for surgical intervention.
Benefits of Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery
Choosing cervical disc replacement surgery at our Austin spine institute offers numerous benefits. Unlike traditional fusion procedures, our approach aims to preserve the natural range of motion in your neck, allowing for an improved quality of life. By maintaining this natural movement, we significantly reduce the risk of degeneration in adjacent discs, leading to better long-term outcomes. Furthermore, our patients typically experience a faster recovery compared to fusion procedures, enabling them to return to their daily activities sooner. With successful cervical disc replacement surgery, patients often achieve significant pain relief, improved neck mobility, and a return to normal activities.
The Disc Replacement Procedure
Through a small incision in the front of the neck, the orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged disc material, relieving pressure on the nerve root and clearing the way for the replacement. The upper and lower vertebrae are then cleaned and their surfaces are prepared to accept the implant. In the past, these vertebrae were simply fused together with a metal plate that essentially locked the two bones together, to the detriment of the neck’s natural range of motion. Today, that doesn’t have to be the case.
Possible After Effects of Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery
It is important to understand the potential after-effects of cervical disc replacement surgery. Immediately following the spine surgery, you may experience some short-term discomfort, such as soreness or stiffness around the neck and incision site. However, these effects typically subside within a few weeks. To aid in your recovery and maximize long-term benefits, we may recommend physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. These exercises are designed to strengthen your neck muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall recovery, contributing to a successful outcome.
Why Choose Central Texas Spine Institute?
When considering why you should choose Central Texas Spine Institute for cervical disc replacement surgery, there are several factors to consider. Our dedicated team consists of board-certified spine surgeons and highly trained medical professionals who specialize in performing cervical disc replacement surgeries. We pride ourselves on using state-of-the-art technology, allowing us to incorporate advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques into our procedures for optimal results. Your care is our priority, and we take a personalized approach to treatment, tailoring surgical plans to meet your specific needs. We are committed to providing comprehensive support throughout your treatment journey, ensuring you have the information and guidance you need every step of the way.
Our Proven Track Record of Success
At Central Texas Spine Institute, we have a proven track record of successful cervical disc replacement surgeries, with countless satisfied patients who have experienced restored mobility and relief from pain. Our patient-centered philosophy focuses on your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. We strive to create a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters trust and open communication. By choosing our Austin spine clinic, you can be confident that you are receiving the highest quality care from a team of experts who are committed to your well-being.
Our Leading Spine Surgery Services
Our Austin spine institute is proud to offer leading spine surgery services that are designed to address a wide range of spinal conditions and provide exceptional results. With a team of highly skilled and experienced spine surgeons, we are at the forefront of advancements in surgical techniques and technology to deliver optimal outcomes for our patients. Minimally invasive spine surgery is another leading-edge service we offer. These spine procedures involve small incisions and specialized instruments, allowing our surgeons to access the spine with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Options For Natural Motion
Our Austin spine institute has several options for disc replacements that can be installed during orthopedic surgery. The Prestige design has a specially made hinge that allows the neck to move and flex, and attaches to each vertebrae with special screws. The PCM disc replacement, on the other hand, needs no screws. Its design features special metal endplates whose surfaces bond to the prepared bone. In the middle is a piece of durable plastic that allows movement by flexing and compressing.
To determine if disc replacement orthopedic surgery is right for you, make an appointment to talk to our spine expert Randall F. Dryer, M.D. He will evaluate your case and give you options for how best to move forward.
ABOUT US
One of the top spine surgeons in the country, Dr. Dryer is an active and recognized leader in the medical profession. Our CTSI professional staff is dedicated to providing our patients with attentive, personalized care.
OUR SERVICES
Utilizing the newest techniques and technologies available to resolve the challenges of back and neck pain, CTSI offers state-of-the-art personalized care. We are Texas' leading back specialists.
